Sundhöllin, Reykjavik

Attraction, Baths and Pool in Reykjavik

Sundhöllin
Sundhöllin
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Akigka

Sundhöllin (often called Sundhöll Reykjavíkur) is Reykjavik's iconic public swimming pool complex, a local-style place to swim laps, warm up in geothermal hot pots, and unwind in the sauna or steam room. It sits right in the city center on Barónsstígur, making it one of the easiest “do what locals do” experiences to add to a Reykjavik itinerary.

Because it's so central, Sundhöllin fits perfectly before or after a downtown walking tour, a visit to Hallgrímskirkja, or an evening stroll along Laugavegur's shops and cafés. If you want a genuine slice of everyday Reykjavik rather than a day-trip spa, this is one of the best places to see how Icelanders actually use their pools year-round.

History and Significance of the Sundhöllin

Sundhöllin is more than a place to swim; it's part of Reykjavik's civic story. Public pools in Iceland are social spaces as much as they are sports facilities, and Sundhöllin has long been a central gathering point for residents who come to soak, chat, and reset in geothermal warmth.

The pool is also closely tied to Reykjavik’s embrace of geothermal energy and practical urban wellness. In a city where weather can change quickly, having a reliable, affordable, indoor-outdoor pool complex in the center helps make swimming and hot-pot culture a year-round habit rather than a special occasion.

Today, Sundhöllin remains a classic “local pool” experience: functional, well-run, and designed for everyday use. For travelers, that authenticity is exactly the appeal.

Things to See and Do in the Sundhöllin

Start with the hot pots: they’re the heart of the experience, and the varying temperatures let you find your comfort zone. Many visitors rotate between a hot pot, a quick cold dip, and then back to warmth, which is especially satisfying after a day of winter sightseeing.

If you’re here for movement, the lap pool is ideal for a straightforward swim session, and there’s often a calm rhythm to the lanes outside peak times. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly options and the overall welcoming vibe, while solo travelers can treat it as a quiet recharge stop between museums, cafés, and shopping.

Don't skip the sauna and steam room if they're open during your visit. They're a big part of Icelandic pool culture and a great way to warm up before heading back out into the Reykjavik air.

How to Get to the Sundhöllin

The nearest airport for most international travelers is Keflavík International Airport (KEF), with Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) useful for internal flights and some regional connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Reykjavik on Booking.com.

Reykjavik does not have intercity passenger rail service, so you can't realistically arrive by train; most visitors come via airport transfers, scheduled buses, or tours instead. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're traveling by car, Sundhöllin is an easy downtown drive, but parking can be limited in the center, so plan for paid street parking or a nearby garage and a short walk.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Sundhöllin

  • Official website: https://reykjavik.is/en/sundholl-reykjavik-pool
  • Entrance fee: Adults: 1,430 ISK; Youth (16–17): 220 ISK; Children (0–15): free.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 06:30–22:00. Saturday – Sunday: 08:00–21:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go early in the morning for a local, low-key atmosphere, or in the early evening for a classic post-sightseeing wind-down.
  • How long to spend: Plan for 1–2 hours if you want to rotate between hot pots, sauna/steam, and a swim; lap swimmers may be happy with 45–60 minutes.
  • Accessibility: The complex is centrally located and generally easy to reach on foot from downtown; ask staff on arrival about the most step-free route and the easiest pool entry options.
  • Facilities: Expect lockers and changing rooms, plus hot pots, pools, and typical public-bath amenities; towel rental is commonly available, but bringing your own is convenient.

Where to Stay Close to the Sundhöllin

Base yourself in central Reykjavik (Downtown/Miðborg) so you can walk to Sundhöllin, restaurants, and the city's main sights without relying on taxis.

Alda Hotel Reykjavík A strong pick for travelers who want to be near shopping and dining on Laugavegur, with an easy walk to the pool and the rest of downtown.

Sand Hotel by Keahotels A stylish, central option that keeps you close to cafés and bakeries, making it easy to pair a morning soak with a relaxed breakfast nearby.

Center Hotels Skjaldbreið Great for a simple, well-located stay right in the heart of town, ideal if you want maximum walkability and minimal transit planning.

KEX Hostel A social, budget-friendly base with a lively atmosphere, convenient for travelers who want to meet others and still stay within walking distance of Sundhöllin.

Hotel Ódinsvé A quieter-feeling boutique choice near central sights, good for travelers who want downtown access but prefer a calmer street at night.

Is the Sundhöllin Worth Visiting?

Yes, Sundhöllin is absolutely worth visiting if you want an authentic Reykjavik experience that locals actually use. It's affordable, central, and delivers the classic Icelandic pool routine: soak, steam, cold dip, repeat.

Honest Pivot: If you're looking for a luxury, Blue Lagoon-style “destination spa” with dramatic scenery and upscale extras, Sundhöllin may feel too practical and municipal. It's best for travelers who value local culture and a real city-pool vibe over a curated resort experience.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (1,166)

Google reviewers rate Sundhöllin very highly, with many describing it as clean, well maintained, and excellent value for money in central Reykjavik. Visitors consistently praise the variety of options beyond a standard pool, especially the hot pots at different temperatures, sauna and steam room, and the cold plunge, plus practical touches like lockers and the ability to rent towels. The most common downsides mentioned are minor: some areas can feel busier at peak times, and a few travelers note that certain pools or lanes may be cooler or vary in availability depending on schedules.

Lydia
a week ago
"1000ISK per adult. Very clean and not too busy during deep winter. For heated pools you have a kids/shallow pool, larger seated pool, swimming lanes(slightly cooler than the heated pools), and up around at the back of the building on the roof there are 2 heated “hot pots” for 40.5°c and 43°c. There is also a sauna and a plunge pool at 8-10°c. Seperate gender changing rooms, shower nude before entering the pools as is standard here. There are hair dryers, swimming costume spi ers, and plenty of lockers...."
Rosie Palfreyman
2 weeks ago
"Amazing place to come and relax in the pools, hot pots, sauna, steam room and diving board for a very reasonable price. Very clean and wellmaintained. This was definitely a highlight of our trip!..."
Lizzy Malinowski
a month ago
"I had a great time here. It was so relaxing after a long day out doing tours. The water is so warm and there is a lot to do— pool, hot tub, coldplunge, sauna. It is right in the heart of town too for only ~7$..."

For Different Travelers

Sundhöllin works well as a flexible “plug-in” activity: you can keep it short and simple or turn it into a longer reset session. Because it's in the center, it's also easy to fit around tours, museum visits, and dinner plans.

Families with Kids

Families tend to enjoy Sundhöllin because it's straightforward, welcoming, and easy to reach without complicated logistics. It's a good option when kids need to burn off energy or when weather makes outdoor plans less appealing.

For the best experience, aim for quieter times so changing rooms and pool areas feel less rushed. Bring swim essentials and a warm layer for the transition back outside, especially in winter.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Sundhöllin is a relaxed, low-pressure way to share an Icelandic ritual together. It's less about “spa romance” and more about a cozy, everyday kind of togetherness.

Pair it with a walk to Hallgrímskirkja or a casual dinner downtown afterward. It's also a great recovery stop after a day of tours, especially if you've been out in wind or snow.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers will appreciate that Sundhöllin offers a memorable Iceland experience without the premium price tag of destination lagoons. You can get a lot of value from a simple routine of hot pots, sauna/steam, and a swim.

To keep costs down, bring your own towel and flip-flops if you already have them. Because it’s central, you can also walk there from many hostels and hotels and skip transport costs.

FAQs for Visiting Sundhöllin

Getting There

Yes, it’s in the city center and is typically an easy walk from downtown hotels and the Laugavegur area. If the weather is rough, a short taxi ride is also simple.
Yes, city buses can get you close, but many visitors find walking easiest if they’re already staying centrally. If you’re coming from farther neighborhoods, plan your route with the nearest stop to Barónsstígur.
Parking is possible but not always convenient in the center. Expect paid street parking and consider arriving a bit earlier if you’re driving.

Tickets & Entry

Typically no; this is a public pool where you pay on arrival. If you’re visiting during a busy holiday period, arriving earlier can help you avoid queues.
Yes, pricing is usually structured by age, with free or reduced entry for younger visitors. Check the current age brackets before you go.
Towel rental is commonly available at Reykjavik pools, and some facilities also sell or rent swim items. If you want to be certain, bring your own towel and suit.

Visiting Experience

Expect a clean, rules-based pool culture where showering properly before entering is taken seriously. Follow posted guidance and staff instructions, especially around hot pots and lane swimming.
Yes, many visitors come mainly for soaking and sauna/steam rather than lap swimming. You can tailor the visit to relaxation without spending much time in deeper water.
Yes, winter is one of the best times because the contrast between cold air and warm water is part of the fun. Just plan for a warm layer when you step outside afterward.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s ideal as a mid-day warm-up or an evening wind-down after exploring downtown on foot. It also pairs well with Hallgrímskirkja and Laugavegur.
Yes, because it’s central and straightforward, it’s a friendly introduction to Icelandic pool culture. Going at a quieter time can make the experience feel less intimidating.
They’re different experiences: Sundhöllin is local and practical, while lagoons are more scenic and resort-like. Many travelers enjoy doing both if time and budget allow.

Photography

Be cautious: changing rooms are strictly no-photo areas, and poolside photography may be limited out of respect for privacy. When in doubt, don’t shoot and ask staff about the rules.
The experience is more about being present than taking pictures, but exterior shots and street scenes nearby can work well. Save your camera for before/after your soak.
A small waterproof pouch is helpful if you plan to carry a phone poolside. Otherwise, leave valuables secured in your locker.

Accessibility & Facilities

Some Reykjavik pools provide private changing rooms or more private facilities. Ask staff on arrival about what’s available that day.
Yes, lockers are designed for quick use and are part of the standard public-pool setup. If you’re unsure, staff can usually point you to the right system.
Many city pools have accessibility features, but the best entry points can vary by area and conditions. Call ahead or ask on arrival for the easiest route and water access.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, you’re in central Reykjavik, so cafés and casual restaurants are close in every direction. It’s easy to plan a warm drink or meal right after.
Most people prefer a light snack beforehand and a proper meal afterward. Hot pots and sauna/steam can feel intense on a very full stomach.
Staying hydrated is smart, especially if you use sauna/steam. Keep water in your locker and take breaks as needed.

Safety & Timing

Yes, it’s a public facility with staff on site and a steady flow of locals and visitors. Use normal precautions with valuables and follow posted safety rules.
After-work hours and weekends tend to be busier, especially in peak travel seasons. Early mornings are often calmer.
Public pools can have schedule changes or occasional closures for maintenance or programming. If a specific feature matters to you, check the day’s schedule before heading over.

Nearby Attractions to the Sundhöllin

  • Hallgrímskirkja: Reykjavik's landmark church with a tower view that's an easy walk from the pool.
  • Laugavegur: The city's main shopping and strolling street, packed with cafés, boutiques, and street life.
  • Harpa Concert Hall: A striking waterfront building known for its architecture and performances.
  • Sun Voyager (Sólfar): A popular seaside sculpture and a classic stop on a downtown walk.
  • Tjörnin (The Pond): A scenic central lake area that's especially pleasant for a short stroll year-round.

The Sundhöllin appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Reykjavik!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday - Friday: 06:30-22:00.

Saturday - Sunday: 08:00-21:00.

Price:

Adults: 1,430 ISK; Youth (16-17): 220 ISK; Children (0-15): free.

Address: Barónsstígur 45a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavik: 1 km
Telephone: +354 411 5350
Official Website

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